The town was founded 326 years ago. I doubt if this tree was standing at the time. However, I like to think that not long after a seed, then a sapling took root in the warm Virginia earth and flourished.
When you and the tree were younger – would you have climbed among the branches? Hid behind the thick trunk? Searched for bird nests?
When you stand half-concealed by a low branch, do you hear the wind and leaves telling stories?
In general, when a town was platted and built — the trees were cleared. Some homes planted orchards. And an occasional old-growth tree would survive due to location or perhaps the first owner of the lot favored the shape.
Fictional Elm Ridge, Illinois during the 1850’s featured many gardens, a few small orchards, and only a rare older tree. Follow the link to a sweet romance between neighbors. https://amzn.to/3VwoeFh
